Art lovers invited to Shrewsbury’s free ‘2Dean Park’

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer

Untitled mixed-media art by Adam FalandysPhoto/submitted

Shrewsbury – Dean Park in Shrewsbury offers a number of amenities including a pond with fountains, athletic fields, playground, pavilions and picnic grove. On Saturday, July 14 (rain date Sunday, July 15), from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., “2Dean Park” will feature a free display of two-dimensional visual art such as drawings, paintings, prints and photographs.

The first-time event was inspired by a suggestion made by Shrewsbury resident Adam Falandys, whose hobby is creating mixed-media art. While walking his dog in Dean Park, it occurred to him that the trashcans would appear more attractive if they were painted with artwork. Falandys approached the parks commission with his idea, noted Angela Snell, director of parks, recreation and cemetery.

“The parks commission didn’t want to get to that level of permanent art in Dean Park at this point,” Snell explained. “We had some feedback from people that they’d like to keep the park natural. But Adam had some really great ideas, so we wanted to work with him to create an art show. It’s a chance for people to be outside while enjoying nature and art.”

Most of the artwork will be displayed on the park’s roadway with the pond serving as a backdrop. Other art pieces will be hung on fences at the baseball field. Falandys considers the park to be an ideal venue for an art show.

“Dean Park is beautiful and a lot could be added with art on display,” he said. “Everyone likes walking around the park and everyone likes looking at art. Put the two together and everyone can have a great time. I want to keep it as open as possible to many different art disciplines. It doesn’t matter what type of two-dimensional work of art someone wants to create; I’m looking forward to seeing them all.”

Artists of all ages and experience levels are welcomed to participate. Art teachers in the town’s public schools were contacted to help get students involved. It’s not necessary for participants to live in Shrewsbury. There are no entry fees for artists or admission for guests.

Artwork can be dropped off at the Parks and Recreation Department, 100 Maple Ave., from Monday, July 9, through Thursday, July 12, from 8 a.m. to noon, or 1 to 4 p.m. Another option for artists is to bring their artwork to the park Saturday, July 14, from 8 to 9:30 a.m., and display it themselves in designated areas.

Judges will choose their favorite pieces in various age categories. Prizes have been donated by Michael’s, Wegmans and The Core Connection.

“We hope it can turn into an annual event,” Snell said. “We’ll see how this one goes and take it from there.”

Falandys added, “I hope it can be proof there’s a need and desire for more art-related projects in town. Even if you think you don’t have creative abilities or that your art isn’t very good, someone out there may very well enjoy it.”